Replacement Number Plates UK: Types, Prices and How to Order (2026)

If you need new number plates, there are really four things to decide: the style, the price, the paperwork and how you want to fit them. This page brings all of that together in one place and points you to the detailed guides if you want more depth.

The four types of replacement plate

If you cannot decide between the raised styles, read our 3D vs 4D comparison.

When do you actually need to replace your plates?

The usual reasons are damage, fading, a theft, an accident or a worn out plate that is starting to fail an MOT. Some people also replace plates when they upgrade the look of a car. If your registration is difficult to read from a distance, or a character is peeling, cracked or missing, the plate is no longer legal and should be replaced.

What you need to order

Registered suppliers must check your identity and your right to the registration. That means photo ID and proof like a V5C logbook. We list everything in our guide to the documents you need to replace a number plate.

How the ordering works

1. Open the number plate builder and type your registration.
2. Choose your style and your size for the front and rear.
3. Check the price and the preview, then complete your order and supply your documents.
4. Your plates are made to BS AU 145e and sent out.

Fitting your new plates

Most people fit them in a few minutes with adhesive pads, screws or both. Our fitting guide and our adhesive vs screws guide show you how.

Are cheaper plates worth it?

A low price is fine as long as the plate is made by a DVLA registered supplier and meets the standard. What you want to avoid is a plate with no supplier details or markings. If you are curious about what affects price, see our full cost guide.

Choosing between the styles

If you only want a legal, dependable plate, a standard one does everything it needs to do. Raised plates are a style choice. 3D Gel has a soft, glossy dome over each character, 4D Laser-Cut has crisp acrylic characters, and 4D Gel is our premium finish. All of them have to meet the same legal rules, so the decision is about looks and budget, not about what is allowed.

What makes a replacement plate legal

A legal plate is reflective, with black characters on white at the front and on yellow at the rear. It uses the standard font with the right size and spacing, carries the BS AU 145e marking if your vehicle was registered after 1 September 2021, and shows the supplier’s name and postcode. If a plate misses any of that, it can fail an MOT, and a plate that is not displayed properly can lead to a fine of up to £1,000.

Mistakes to avoid when ordering

• Typing the registration wrongly. Check every character before you pay, because a single wrong letter makes the plate useless.
• Choosing the wrong size for your bumper or plate holder.
• Waiting until the old plate is already unreadable and the MOT is days away.
• Buying from a seller that does not ask for any proof of entitlement.

Where to go next

If you are replacing a damaged plate, read about replacing a lost or damaged number plate. If your plate is cracked but you are not sure it needs changing, our guide to driving with a cracked number plate explains where the line is. If you are changing the style or the registration itself, see our guide to changing a number plate.

How long should plates last?

A well made plate fitted properly can last for years. What shortens their life is harsh cleaning, loose fitting that lets them vibrate, and constant exposure to road salt and sun. A quick wash with mild soapy water and a regular look at the fixings will keep them in good condition. If the characters start to fade, peel or crack, replace the plate rather than waiting for the MOT to flag it.

Delivery and what to expect

Once your order is placed and your documents are checked, your plates are made and sent out. The expected delivery time is shown in the number plate builder before you pay, so you can plan around it. If your current plates are already damaged, try to order a few days before you need the car on the road for something important, such as an MOT.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need front and rear plates?

Cars need both. Motorcycles only need a rear plate.

Can I fit the plates myself?

Yes. It is a simple job and does not need a garage.

What if my registration is on a private plate?

The process is the same, but you may need different paperwork. Our private number plate guide explains it.